釜底抽薪
Remove the Firewood from Under the Pot
If you cannot match an enemy's strength directly, cut off the source of power that fuels them.
Aliases
Remove the Firewood from Under the Pot / Confusion Stratagems
Domains
stratagem, negotiation, positioning, competition, conflict
Stratagem Name and Original Text
- Stratagem Name:
釜底抽薪 - Original Text:
不敌其力，而消其势，兑下乾上之象。 - Translation: If you cannot match an enemy's strength directly, cut off the source of power that fuels them.
How It Works
- Concise Definition: Sever the support rather than only attacking the surface.
- Explanation: When the fuel is gone, the problem diminishes.
Usage Example
- Undercut the incentive, channel, or narrative engine that lets your rival maintain their dominant position.
